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Belt Squat

Step by step instructions, muscle activation and variants for the Belt Squat.

EasyGlutesQuadriceps

About this exercise

The belt squat loads the hips through a belt around your waist, training the quads and glutes while keeping the load off your spine and shoulders.

How to Perform

  • Stand on the platform of a belt squat machine and fasten the belt around your hips
  • Set your feet shoulder-width apart and grip the handles for balance
  • Unrack the load and let it hang from the belt
  • Bend your knees and push your hips back to lower into a squat
  • Descend until your thighs are about parallel to the floor
  • Drive through your heels to stand back up
  • Repeat

Muscle Activation

Primary
GlutesQuadriceps

About the Belt Squat

The Belt Squat is a foundational movement that builds strength and muscle through controlled, progressive overload. Train it 1 to 2 times per week with 3 to 5 working sets per session, gradually adding weight or reps as form holds up.